2021 is here and we are recruiting!  We need:
*  Youth ages 8-18 to teach technology and digital literacy to older adults; AND
*  Older adults who are interested in learning how to use technology and train/mentor others      using technology!  Complete the Volunteer Form below or call 877-572-3399 x3 for details.
Volunteer Technology Trainers/Mentors Needed for Youth Ages 8-18!  For more information visit:  https://www.volunteermatch.org/search/opp3326046.jsp


Many local communities are requiring the use of masks in public places, so that means that ​​our kids need masks too. Support the Geeks & Gramps Program by purchasing a mask for $7 or donating a mask to a youth in need.  DRMI is a 501c3 charitable organization and all proceeds are tax deductible and support the DRMI Geeks & Gramps (grandparents) Program. ​​​
     The Corona Virus pandemic, social and political action. and economic downturn has many of us trying to figure out just what our "new normal" will look like.  In these challenging times, our most vulnerable, youth and seniors, are trying to adjust to every day life and the role that technology plays in keeping us all connected.  Social distancing has put many seniors at a disadvantage.  Some lack the confidence to effectively use technology to stay connected.  The DRMI Geeks & Gramps (grandparents) program helps to close the digital divide, while engaging youth 8-18 in professional development activities.   DRMI has prided itself on successfully administering the Geeks & Gramps (grandparents) Program, partnering youth with seniors in advancing the use of technology to stay connected. To that end, DRMI has shifted operations to address this need by offering our youth workshops and sessions for seniors in person following physical distancing expectations and virtually through Zoom.  
DRMI WAS AWARDED A $1,000 GRANT IN 2019 FROM THE AWESOME FOUNDATION!
THANK YOU TO THE AWESOME FOUNDATION FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF THIS UNIQUE & INNOVATIVE PROGRAM.
For more information about The Awesome Foundation visit: https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en/chapters/tallahassee

We are recruiting tech savvy youth ages 8-18 and innovative seniors for the Geeks & Gramps Program.  For more information call  Call 877-572-3399 ext 2 for details.
The Geeks & Gramps Program provides an opportunity for social and intergenerational connectedness and engagement between youth 8-18 and seniors.  It helps to bridge generational gaps and bridges the digital divide by helping seniors to stay connected to family, friends, neighbors and community members.  Youth learn life skills that can be used for a lifetime, and seniors feel more confident with technology. The Geeks & Gramps Program helps seniors have a stronger sense of purpose and well-being, and youth are transformed through volunteerism.

The Geeks & Gramps Program partners local youth 8-18 (Geeks) with seniors (Gramps=grandparents), to coach and learn from each other through technology. Youth participate in a comprehensive 2.5 hour workshop, learning about the various generations, effective communication skills, group dynamics, team building,  presentation and life skills. Youth are then ready to go on site (or virtually) to senior centers, churches, community events, etc. to demonstrate their skills as SMEs (subject matter experts).  Seniors have the opportunity to share their wisdom, knowledge, insights and skills on various topics, and mentor youth towards success.

Click HERE to view media coverage by WCTV of the Geeks & Gramps Program held at the Gadsden Senior Services Center in Quincy, FL on June 17, 2019 (we visited them again on January 3, 2020).  We also thank the Gadsden Senior Services Center in Chattahoochee, FL which sponsored the program on July 29, 2019.

Special thanks to the awesome staff and seniors at both Gadsden Senior Centers.  We are especially thankful for our youth who made these events a huge success, and the parents who trusted us with their children!

2020 Gadsden Senior Center in Quincy, FL 

Picture
Created by "Geek" Aaron Thomas, 2020

2019